it is an ancient imperative
a message filtering through
to humanity
stretching back toward infinite beginnings
and travelling the braided, winding epochs of our heralded species
to a
future
of
endless horizon
wake up! the seers of old beseech
seek the light, the truth of who you are
this bewitchment of matter
allow its disintegration
under your steady, thoughtful gaze
a gaze replete
with impeccable discrimination
a gaze saturated
with inexhaustible
profuse
love
wake up
the circling skies
and stars
clamor
finally, open your eyes
and awake
from this numbing dream
the rose
pale and quivering
in the breeze
of playful spring
the dog,
neighborhood cur
of unknown origins
they know their true nature
why
have you stirred
from yours?
wake up
the wind whispers
wake up
the flowers nod
oh, you, submerged in
the dream ocean
catapult yourself up
into air
and sunlight
and the exquisite freedom
this opportunity
of a human life
offers
it does not require
strenuous effort
rather, a soft, loving
and persistent
focus
on your own beingness
will eventually erode
the canyons, stark and lonely,
of historical thought
and limitation
oh, gentle traveler
follow the path of the Great Ones
by heeding the cry
of your own
soul
a cry which describes
humanities greatest work
and
inevitable
destiny
oh, gentle wanderer
heed the call of love
a call out
to the four corners
of our dazzling, riotous
world
feel its warm embrace
as it gently shakes you
from your
slumber
and,
whispers
sweetly
in your ear
wake up…
Annie Kiyonaga
2002